CASE STUDY
TMS – When Specialized Expertise
Transforms Project Outcomes
We work with our clients to establish the projects scope and parameters
so that each model meets the project’s needs.
The Challenge: TMS provided us with a list that outlined how they want models to be constructed.
Rather than copy and paste TMS’s entire company standards, here is a list of a few they sent us that are important, and we need to follow. In total TMS provided us with a list of 37 bullet points that outlined how they want models to be constructed. Every project is unique and is budget driven. Some projects require basic information, while others require a higher level of detail (LOD). We work with our clients to establish the project scope and parameters so that each model meets the project’s needs.
- When modeling walls, use a respective base point unique to that level and have them extend to the T.O. Wall for that respective level. For example, first floor walls should generally have a base constraint of T.O. Foundation Wall and extend up with a top constraint of T.O. Wall – First Floor. Do not model walls from the top of foundation all the way up to the roof. This makes it hard when we have to selectively demo certain walls on certain floors. It also makes the walls clean up better in Revit when they join with each other at corners, etc. Break up the walls by level wherever possible. (In-house PiXate typically designates the T.O. Wall level to be called Bearing, respective to the floor assembly that is bearing on that T.O. Wall.)
- Floor/Ceiling: Should be modeled as single structural layer of assumed thickness. Top of this structural layer should be aligned with the T.O. Deck Level for that associated floor level. Any assumed finish thickness should be modeled above this structural layer. Do not model the top of Finish floor at the T.O. Deck elevations. Floor finishes should be modeled separately on a room by room basis as noted above. Ceiling finishes should be modeled separately depending on whether they are a hard ceiling attached directly to strapping or a hung/ built-down ceiling
- Model roof structure. Ok to make assumptions on thickness of materials. Note any anomalies. Roof finish can be modeled separately to show overhangs accurately and provide a host for fascias and rakes, etc.
- Exterior trim. Model roof and wall trim as ‘Fascia’ ‘Soffit’ ‘Wall Sweep’ etc. Avoid Generic Modeling to the extent possible
- Avoid modeling trim and other profiles ‘By Sketch’. Instead, create a profile family and load the family into the project and select it when creating trim and other components that use a profile. This way, we have the ability to update the profile and it will update globally throughout the whole project
- Use view templates to control the majority of the Visibility Graphics of each view.
NavVis
A behind the scenes look into the importance of our capture process and how this speeds up future design changes
Scanning
Scanning speed without sacrificing accuracy. Because the technology we use is wearable, and more maneuverable to get into tighter spaces, we are able to capture more information more quickly while maintaining a high degree of accuracy in the scan.
The Digital Twin
The Digital Twin created from the can, creates a virtual environment that allows not only the client’s in-house team to access an accurate digital representation of the space, but also allows subcontractors, the end client, and other disciplines access to this same space. This reduces repeat site visits from multiple companies, allows them to organize their thoughts and questions more efficiently for when they do visit the site in real life.
NavVis Portal
The NavVis Ivion portal is the gateway to the Digital Twin environment. The Ivion Portal’s ease of use is unparalleled in the industry. The tools and features make it easy to navigate throughout the site to collect data and to start organizing the early phases of the design process with all team members, subcontractors, and disciplines. Many other scanning technologies don’t give their end clients a portal to access, or the tools are more for viewing only while the NavVis Ivion portal goes the extra mile to become an integral part of the Existing Conditions Documentation workflow.
Point Clouds
Working with Point Clouds ensures a level of accuracy that is an evolutionary change in how professionals document existing conditions. It has revolutionized the workflows of Architects, Engineers, and Designers across the globe.
Summary
Our capture process helps speed up future design changes by combining fast, accurate scanning with easy access to a detailed digital twin of the space. Using wearable scanning technology, we can move quickly through tight or complex areas while capturing highly accurate existing conditions. The resulting digital twin, accessed through the NavVis Ivion portal, gives clients, subcontractors, end users, and design teams a shared virtual environment to review the site, gather information, reduce repeat visits, and coordinate decisions more efficiently. By working from accurate point cloud data, architects, engineers, and designers can better document existing conditions and improve the overall design workflow.
Some information from the Model
The difference between in-house and specialized visualization tells the complete story.
- While many of our competitors are modeling using Mass-modeling, and painting surfaces, our standard is to model the assemblies as best as we can with real world materials and typical construction methods.
- We start by identifying what the space is, Commercial, Residential, Historic, then proceed with a Revit Template that best suits that construction type.
- Residential will typically be Nominal 2x construction with ½” GWB, while Commercial or high-rise residential will be using metal studs, concrete, and ⅝” GWB. We also understand the construction methods used in Historic Architecture, Load-bearing masonry construction, Actual 2x assemblies, and Lathe & Plaster finishes are all material layers incorporated in our modeling of the building.
- We do our best to think about the assemblies, review what we see in the Digital Twin in the NavVis Ivion Portal, and bring the Point Cloud to life through our Revit model.
Testimonial
Over the past few years, our firm has transitioned from traditional field measurements to laser scanning to develop existing conditions, Revit models and documentation. As part of that shift, we explored having scanning consultants also build the Revit models. However, we consistently ran into two issues: models that were highly detailed but poorly constructed and difficult to use, or models that were well-built but lacked key information clearly visible in the scan. In both cases, our team spent unplanned time reworking the model to meet our standards.
Partnered with Jonn at PixateCreative
We initially partnered with Jonn at PixateCreative to improve our scanning workflow while continuing to model in-house. After discussing our previous challenges with Jonn and James, they demonstrated a clear understanding of our needs and confidence in their ability to deliver both accurate and well-structured models. We were specifically seeking a partner who could capture the level of detail required for design, demonstrate a strong understanding of typical building construction, and develop the model using best-practice Revit standards that support downstream project phases.
Model from PixateCreative met our expectations.
The model we received from PixateCreative met our expectations. They listened carefully to our feedback and aligned with our standards from the start. We provided documentation outlining our level of detail and modeling guidelines, and their first delivery addressed our past issues immediately. The model included the detail we needed and was organized in a logical, consistent way—walls aligned correctly, types were clearly defined, phasing and units were set properly, and common shortcuts or inconsistencies were avoided. Overall, the model was clean, coordinated, and ready for use without significant rework.
The collaboration process
The collaboration process was equally strong. We began with a kickoff meeting to align on expectations, followed by milestone reviews to track progress and incorporate feedback. The final handoff included a thorough walkthrough to confirm the model met our needs. While it typically takes time to establish a strong working relationship with a new consultant, Jonn and James made the process seamless through clear communication, responsiveness, and attention to detail.
A reliable partner
PixateCreative has proven to be a reliable partner, delivering high-quality models that meet both our technical standards and project needs.
~ Andrew Schrag, Assoc. AIA Associate
Interested in exploring how strategic visualization partnerships can enhance your most important projects? We’d love to discuss how our specialized expertise can complement your architectural practice and deliver exceptional results for your clients.